Crystal M. Hayes, Ph.D., MSW
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Dr. Crystal Hayes is a dedicated social work professor, possessing a profound commitment to prison reform and reproductive justice. With an MSW from Smith College School for Social Work and a Ph.D. from the University of Connecticut, Dr. Hayes brings a wealth of academic achievement and expertise to her endeavors.
Growing up as the child of an incarcerated father and political prisoner, Dr. Hayes's life has been deeply influenced by her father's legacy as a member of the Black Panther Party. This background has ignited a passionate dedication to prison reform, aiming to challenge systemic inequalities and advocate for justice within the carceral system.
In addition to her prison reform work, Dr. Hayes is a steadfast advocate for reproductive justice. Her role as a prison-based doula embodies her commitment to empowering incarcerated individuals, particularly during the pivotal moments of pregnancy and childbirth. Her work is firmly grounded in the principles of Black feminist theory, abolition, and reproductive justice, reflecting a holistic approach that addresses the complex intersections of race, gender and social justice.
With over a decade of experience in social work education, Dr. Hayes has been shaping the minds of future professionals since 2012. Her extensive contributions to academia extend to her postdoctoral fellowship of Public Health, where she further honed her expertise in research, grant writing, and advocacy.
Dr. Hayes's dissertation explored the pregnancy and childbirth experiences of incarcerated Black women. This research stands as a testament to her commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and advocating for comprehensive reproductive healthcare for incarcerated women.
In her multifaceted role as a social work professor, prison reform advocate, reproductive justice champion, doula, and researcher, Dr. Hayes exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on promoting justice, equity and human rights.
Degrees & Certifications
- Ph.D., Social Work, University of Connecticut, School for Social Work 2021
- MSW, Smith College, School for Social Work, 2006
- BA, Mount Holyoke College, 2004
Teaching Responsibilities
My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that education is a transformative journey that empowers individuals to be active participants in shaping a just and equitable world. As a social work professor deeply committed to advancing social justice, my approach to teaching is centered on fostering responsible learners who are not only well-equipped with knowledge and skills but also possess the agency to drive positive change within themselves and their communities.
I currently teach policy I (SW 565) and policy II (SW 566). I also teach introduction to research (SW 590) and applied research (SW 591).
Research Interests & Grants
My research passions lie at the intersection of reproductive justice, Black feminist theory, and the critical maternal health issues affecting incarcerated people. Guided by the tenets of reproductive justice, I am committed to addressing the challenges that hinder incarcerated individuals’ access to comprehensive and compassionate reproductive healthcare. Informed by the perspectives of Black feminist theory, my objective is to thoroughly delve into the interwoven complexities of race, gender, and class that shape the experiences of incarcerated individuals during pregnancy, placing a specific emphasis on their path to maternal well-being within the confines of the carceral system.
At the heart of my research pursuits is a steadfast dedication to dismantling white supremacy and disparities that disproportionately impact marginalized communities. Drawing inspiration from Black feminist theory, my research focuses on the complexities of racial, social, and gender injustices, highlighting how these elements contribute to reproductive health disparities among incarcerated pregnant people. Moreover, my commitment extends to revealing the nuanced intersections between maternal healthcare and mass incarceration, shedding light on how these overlapping systems perpetuate inequalities, especially concerning the maternal health of Black people.
Furthermore, my ultimate interests are deeply rooted in the principles of community engagement and activism, driven by a sense of urgency to translate research into tangible policy reform and social change. By collaborating with advocacy groups, organizations, and key stakeholders my intention is to transform my research findings into impactful initiatives that bring about enduring transformations in maternal healthcare and the lives of incarcerated pregnant people. My dedication revolves around adopting a comprehensive approach that interconnects reproductive justice, Black feminist theory, and the maternal health challenges faced by incarcerated women, all aimed at fostering a society that is more inclusive, just, and equitable for everyone.
Awards & Fellowships
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH) University of California, San Francisco
- Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Department of Maternal and Child Health Gillings School of Global Public Health University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Vivian Michaelson Fellowship, University of Connecticut
- White House Collaborative on Equity in Research on Women & Girls of Color Research Grant, University of Connecticut
- Council on Social Work Education, Minority Fellows Program
- Five College Women's Studies Research Associateship, Mount Holyoke College